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Paris Park (Mecosta County Park)
Overview
Paris Park offers a distinct blend of historical interest and natural beauty along the banks of the Muskegon River. Originally established as a state fish hatchery in the late 19th century, this Mecosta County destination is most famous for its 20-foot Eiffel Tower replica. The park serves as a peaceful retreat for RVers who appreciate a touch of local whimsy alongside traditional outdoor recreation. It is a well-preserved piece of Michigan history that offers a quiet escape for those traveling through the central part of the state.
Location & Surroundings
Conveniently located just off US-131 between Big Rapids and Reed City, the park feels worlds away from the highway. The landscape is defined by the Muskegon River and a series of historic ponds. Its most significant geographical feature is the direct access to the Fred Meijer White Pine Trail State Park. This paved linear trail stretches for miles, offering campers a scenic corridor through the heart of West Central Michigan’s lush woodlands, wetlands, and small-town landscapes.
Amenities & Park Features
The campground provides approximately 68 campsites that accommodate various RV sizes. Most sites are equipped with water and electric hookups, ensuring a comfortable stay while maintaining a rustic atmosphere. On-site facilities include the following features:
- A sanitary dump station for easy RV maintenance.
- Modern restrooms with hot shower facilities.
- Shaded picnic areas and a playground for families.
- A boat launch for convenient river access.
The historic fish hatchery ponds remain a focal point of the grounds, providing a tranquil environment for visitors to walk and reflect.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Travelers can spend their days kayaking or tubing down the gentle currents of the Muskegon River. The nearby city of Big Rapids offers local breweries, boutiques, and the Ferris State University campus for an afternoon trip. Anglers often visit the area for its world-class trout fishing, while cyclists can ride the White Pine Trail north or south for hours of exploration. The park's own wooded trails and the iconic Eiffel Tower monument provide unique photo opportunities for every visitor.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is ideal for active outdoor enthusiasts and cyclists who want immediate trail access without moving their rig. It also appeals to families looking for a unique, educational stopover where children can explore the old hatchery grounds. Because of its serene environment, it is perfect for nature photographers and those who prefer the quiet charm of a county park over the high-traffic atmosphere of a commercial resort. It is a true hidden gem for travelers seeking peaceful Michigan scenery.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Jaclyn Langworthy
I was so excited to bring my sister here, to see the fish. First we were charged $7 to come into the place, and then to find out most of the park is closed. My family and I are very disappointed. When we asked the lady about they did not offer to return our money. No one pays $7 to see a few fish and a fake effel tower.
S Ash
It's a cute riverside park located in a campground, with a small Eiffel tower replica. The trail is nice, but not always open. There is small fee for a daily pass to the campground. It's a nice stop if you're heading between Big Rapids and Hershey or Reed.
Season Gilliam
This was such a kind and hospitable campground. The staff and other campers felt like friends by the end of our trip. We were able to get on the river right from the campground. Very clean bathroom facilities. Beautiful mature trees around the sites. The park is a great amenity to have right on site, with a well maintained volleyball court. Beautiful landscaping. Overall amazing vibes.
Tiffany Scott
This was a great medium size campground. They have all kinds of sites for tents full hook up to water n electric to full rustic. This owned by the city but you would never know it, it's maintained by a family who are wonderful and very friendly and they do a great job keeping it clean bathrooms are the cleanest IV ever seen at a campground they also provide shower chairs which is great. It's not expensive either however something that is not posted on the website and should be is that on top of what you pay for your campsite, and is not included in that base pay for ur stay and has to be paid when you arrive is a $7 a day parking fee, however if your going to be visiting this park again or any of their sister parks I highly recommend getting the annual pass for $35. and you are in the country but yet close enough to either reed city or big rapids if you need something. I also recommend during your stay to make the small trip to reed city and have a dinner at the depot ice cream shop their food is amazing and pretty cheap. The campground also does special events on the weekends that are fun and they are trying to raise $ to get their 3 trout ponds fixed, which 1 is sit up and going and you can go and see them and feed them which is great for the kids and hell even us adults have fun doing it. Enjoy your stay.
Gregory Wickings
Super nice out of the way county campground, diverse campers, with great staff for 2025. Safe for everyone, in these uncertain political times. Great cabins, well kept swimming area, and super nice tubing service. Bathrooms are old but clean and functional. Well groomed hiking trails, and they are restoring the fish ponds! Activities for everyone.